A Journey of Resilience and Recovery at MidAmerica Rehabilitation Hospital
Story by Ann Butenas
MJ All Day’s Inspiring Journey of Resilience and Recovery
In the world of athletics, few stories are as inspiring as that of Marques “MJ All Day” Jackson. A lifelong athlete, former college football player, state champion wrestler, and fitness instructor at Title Boxing Club. MJ was at the peak of his physical prowess when an unexpected illness threatened to derail not just his career, but his life. This is the story of his incredible journey from a debilitating illness to a remarkable recovery, highlighting the crucial role played by MidAmerica Rehabilitation Hospital in Overland Park, Kansas.
Late last summer, MJ began to feel unusually tired and sick. Initially dismissing it as a common cold or the flu, he soon realized something was seriously wrong. After a few days of deteriorating health, he called his parents and asked them to take him to the hospital. Little did he know that this decision would mark the beginning of a 51-day hospital stay that would dramatically change his life.
At the hospital, doctors ran a battery of tests, ultimately diagnosing MJ with legionnaire’s pneumonia, a severe form of lung infection. “One of three people survive this,” MJ noted, reflecting on the gravity of his condition. When asked about the possible source of his illness, MJ speculated about the air conditioning units in his apartment complex. He had recently moved into a new unit within the complex where he had lived for five years. “It must have been dirty, as it was an old school unit,” he recalled, believing he contracted the disease by breathing air from the contaminated AC system.
As MJ’s condition worsened, doctors made the difficult decision to place him in an induced coma on July 5, 2023. For 23 days, MJ lay unconscious, his body fighting against the ravages of the disease. During this time, he experienced a series of vivid nightmares that would later blur the lines between reality and imagination. On July 23rd, doctors finally brought him out of the coma, but the battle was far from over.
“I was very disoriented because of those dreams and could not distinguish between what was real and what was not,” MJ said, describing his state upon awakening. “It took me a while to adjust.”
The coma, however, was just one of the challenges MJ faced. While unconscious, he suffered a massive stroke that paralyzed his entire right side. Upon waking, he found himself unable to move his right arm or leg, particularly his wrist. Simple tasks like getting out of bed became monumental challenges, requiring full-time assistance and the use of a hoyer lift.
MJ also experienced heart issues that required surgery, as well as kidney problems that necessitated temporary dialysis. By the time he was ready to begin rehabilitation, MJ was severely weakened and lethargic, though immensely grateful to be alive.
On August 16th, MJ was transferred to MidAmerica Rehabilitation Hospital in Overland Park, Kansas, marking the beginning of his journey back to health and independence. Unbeknownst to him at the time, he had also torn his meniscus in his right knee, an injury that would later require surgery in December of last year.
MJ’s first days at MidAmerica were challenging. For someone who had always been in peak physical condition, being confined to a wheelchair was a frustrating and humbling experience. But MJ’s warrior spirit, honed through years of athletic competition, quickly surfaced.
“I came in on Wednesday of that week in a wheelchair and by Monday of the following week I was using a walker,” he recalled with a smile. This rapid progress was a testament not only to MJ’s determination but also to the skilled and dedicated staff at MidAmerica.
Ali Daugherty, MBA, PTA, Rehab Liaison at MidAmerica, remembers MJ’s early days at the facility vividly. “I followed MJ at the hospital for 4 weeks in order to get him into MidAmerica Rehab. I remember each time I went to see him, he wanted to make sure our staff knew he couldn’t walk. He would say ‘you know I can’t walk, right?’ and each time I would assure him that we would start his therapy at his current level and progress from there. He was so motivated and positive each time I would visit and did not let anything wear him down. Despite not being able to walk, he was so excited to start rehab and would always focus on the silver lining.”
MJ’s background as a former college football player, state champion wrestler, and MMA fighter (known professionally as “MJ All Day”) proved invaluable during his rehabilitation. “I did everything they told me to do,” he said. “I was on full throttle from Day One. They knew I was an athlete, so they pushed me hard.”
And push him they did. MJ’s daily routine at MidAmerica was rigorous and comprehensive. Beginning with breakfast at 8 a.m., he would then engage in four hours of combined physical therapy, occupational therapy, and group fitness sessions. Even on days without scheduled therapy, MJ continued to push himself, going for walks and staying active.
MJ’s occupational therapist, Nicole Bergeson, spoke highly of his dedication and spirit. “I loved challenging MJ to reach his highest potential. He showed determination, grit and perseverance to get his life back.”
Throughout his stay at MidAmerica, MJ’s support system played a crucial role in his recovery. His parents and girlfriend visited daily, and friends rallied around him, even raising money to help with his mounting medical expenses. “My family and friends got me through my time at the hospital and at MidAmerica,” MJ said with gratitude.
As the weeks passed, MJ’s progress was nothing short of remarkable. He transitioned from a wheelchair to a walker, then to a cane, and finally to walking unassisted. By the time he was discharged on September 15th, MJ was walking with a cane. By December 1st, he no longer needed even that support.
Reflecting on his experience at MidAmerica, MJ was effusive in his praise. “They got me to where I am today,” he said. He specifically acknowledged his physical therapist, Bailey, and occupational therapist, Nicole, along with Ali, who helped facilitate his admission to the facility.
“I love it,” MJ emphasized when asked about MidAmerica. “They have a professional staff and team, and they really care about you. They make sure you are always okay. It was a great experience, and they really made me feel comfortable. Plus, the food was good.”
After his discharge from MidAmerica, MJ continued his recovery with eight weeks of outpatient therapy at Ability KC, a facility recommended by Nicole. This additional therapy further solidified the gains he had made and prepared him for his return to everyday life.
Now middle-aged, MJ assesses his current fitness and ability level at a 6 or 7 out of 10. While he acknowledges that he’s not yet back to his previous world-class athletic form, he’s adapting well to his new reality. He works out daily and, although he has a slight limp, it’s barely noticeable to most people.
“I thank God daily I am still here,” MJ said, reflecting on his journey.
As he looks to the future, MJ is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. With a degree in communication and college credits in education, he plans to substitute teach in various school districts throughout the Kansas City metro area. He’s also keeping one foot in the fitness world, teaching classes at Ever Fit in Shawnee, Kansas.
Leading with innovation for better patient care—Rehabilitation for the real world Using advanced technologies during therapy, patients can focus on their greatest needs and rebuild the skills they’ll rely on most during and after rehabilitation. • Increasing independence in activities of daily living such as grooming, dressing and cooking • Real-world skills like driving and shopping
Perhaps most importantly, MJ has regained his independence. He’s driving again and has regained the use of his right hand, though he jokes, “My handwriting was always messy, anyway.”
MJ’s story is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of high-quality rehabilitation care. From the depths of a life-threatening illness to walking out of MidAmerica Rehabilitation Hospital under his own power, MJ’s journey is nothing short of inspirational.
For those facing similar challenges, MJ’s experience offers hope and encouragement. It demonstrates that with determination, expert care, and a strong support system, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome. MJ’s recovery is not just a personal triumph; it’s a shining example of what’s possible when cutting-edge medical care meets an indomitable will to survive and thrive.
As MJ continues to rebuild his life and pursue new goals, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the vital role that institutions like MidAmerica Rehabilitation Hospital play in helping patients reclaim their lives. For MJ, and countless others like him, these facilities are more than just hospitals – they’re the launching pads for remarkable comebacks and the birthplaces of renewed hope.
In the end, MJ’s journey from coma to comeback is more than just a tale of personal triumph. It’s a testament to the power of modern medicine, the importance of dedicated healthcare professionals, and the unbreakable spirit of a true athlete. As MJ continues to inspire others through his story and his work, he stands as a living example of what it means to be a true champion – both in sports and in life.
For more information on MidAmerica Rehabilitation Hospital located at 5701 W 110th St, Overland Park, KS 66211, call (913) 491-2400, or visit them at
https://encompasshealth.com/midamericarehab.
